🙏 Rocamadour

About This Sacred Site

Rocamadour is a spectacular cliff-face sanctuary clinging to the limestone gorge of the Alzou River in southwest France. The site has been a major pilgrimage destination since the 12th century, when the perfectly preserved body of an unknown holy man was discovered beneath the chapel threshold. The Chapel of Notre-Dame houses the venerated Black Madonna, a 12th-century wooden statue credited with numerous miracles. Pilgrims traditionally ascend the 216 steps of the Grand Escalier on their knees while praying.

Key Facts

• •Pilgrims have climbed the 216 Grand Stairway steps on their knees for centuries
• •The Black Madonna statue dates to the 12th century and is credited with miraculous healings
• •A medieval sword embedded in the cliff is said to be Durandal, Roland's legendary blade
• •Henry II of England, Louis IX of France, and other royals made pilgrimages here
• •The sanctuary complex includes seven chapels built into the rock face

Location

Coordinates: 44.7992, 1.6187